United Fight Back to Secure Vital Away Victory
Manchester United produced a spirited second-half comeback to defeat Crystal Palace 2-1 at Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon. This crucial Premier League victory helped erase the memory of their dismal defeat to Everton just days earlier.
The Reds found themselves trailing at half-time after a difficult opening period. Jean-Philippe Mateta opened the scoring for Palace from the penalty spot in the first half, though the centre-forward was forced to retake his kick after his initial successful effort was ruled out for a double-touch.
Second-Half Turnaround Seals the Points
The momentum shifted dramatically after the break. Joshua Zirkzee equalised for United in the 54th minute with a superb low finish, marking his first league goal since December and getting off the mark for this season.
The comeback was completed just nine minutes later. Mason Mount curled a brilliant effort into the net to put United ahead, scoring his second goal of the campaign and securing a massive three points for Ruben Amorim's side.
Despite some late pressure from the hosts, United managed the game well and held on relatively comfortably to move into the top half of the table, now sitting just four points behind rivals Manchester City.
Manchester United Player Ratings at Selhurst Park
Senne Lammens - 6
The goalkeeper made the expected saves in the first half and was arguably the best of a poor bunch during the opening 45 minutes.
Leny Yoro - 3
Endured another difficult game. Yoro was fortunate after an early blunder and did make one important block, but his clumsy challenge conceded the penalty.
Matthijs de Ligt - 5
The physical Mateta asked serious questions of De Ligt from the start, winning their battle and pulling him out of position. He looked more assured after the interval.
Luke Shaw - 6
Made a crucial block to prevent Palace from doubling their lead just before half-time. Offered little attacking threat, but his defensive solidity was a compliment from the hosts. Received a booking for a professional foul.
Amad - 5
Deployed at right-wing back, a role he usually looks comfortable in, but he was uncharacteristically uninvolved in the intricate play down his flank. Could have performed better.
Casemiro - 5
The Brazilian wasted a glorious headed chance from a free-kick just a minute into the match, much to the disbelief of his manager. He improved somewhat after a shaky start.
Bruno Fernandes - 7
Demonstrated his world-class quality by creating chances even on an off day. Fernandes was responsible for both assists from set-piece routines that led to United's goals.
Diogo Dalot - 7
Recalled to the side and made a tangible difference, particularly with his dangerous long throw-ins. A clear upgrade on his predecessor in the position.
Bryan Mbeumo - 5
The winger has not returned from the international break with the same zest he showed before it. He worked hard down the right flank but is capable of offering more in attack.
Mason Mount - 8
Making his first start since the win at Anfield, Mount delivered a similarly industrious and hard-working performance. The key difference this time was his match-winning, expertly curled goal.
Joshua Zirkzee - 7
Anonymous in the first half, where his touch was inconsistent, but he transformed his performance after the break. He equalised with a brilliant, powerful half-volley that gave the goalkeeper no chance.
Substitutes Make Their Mark
Noussair Mazraoui - 6
Came on and provided a noticeable improvement in defence after replacing the struggling Yoro.
Lisandro Martinez - 6
The defender looked fine in his first appearance for the team since February, adding stability late on.
Patrick Dorgu & Kobbie Mainoo - N/A
Both players arrived on the pitch too late to influence the game and earn a rating.
